After hours spent wandering the fascinating halls of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, you have likely worked up a serious appetite. Whether you are craving a quick bite before your visit or a relaxing sit-down meal to decompress afterward, the surrounding neighborhoods offer a surprisingly diverse culinary landscape. From iconic LA institutions to hidden neighborhood gems, the area is a melting pot of flavors reflecting the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
Navigating the busy streets of Exposition Park and the nearby University Park area can be daunting if you do not know where to look. Fortunately, you do not need to drive far to find an exceptional meal. Within a short walk or a five-minute drive, you can travel from the prehistoric era to modern-day gastronomy, sampling everything from soul food to authentic Oaxacan cuisine.
This guide focuses on quality, proximity, and the overall dining experience to help you maximize your time. We have curated a list that caters to various budgets and tastes, ensuring that families, couples, and solo travelers alike can find the perfect spot to refuel. Rather than settling for overpriced museum cafeteria food, step outside and discover the vibrant food scene that defines South Los Angeles.
One of the greatest advantages of dining near the museum is the authenticity of the establishments. Many of these restaurants have been serving the local community for decades, offering recipes passed down through generations. You will find that the area is particularly renowned for its Southern comfort food, spicy Creole dishes, and traditional Mexican staples that are hard to find elsewhere in the city.
Whether you are looking for a hearty breakfast to start your day of exploration or a late lunch to discuss your favorite exhibits, this list has you covered. We have prioritized places that offer consistent service, welcoming atmospheres, and, most importantly, unforgettable food. You can trust that these recommendations are based on a deep understanding of the local dining scene and a commitment to highlighting the best the area has to offer.
Before we dive into the specific locations, it is worth noting that parking can be competitive near the museum. Many of these restaurants offer their own lots, but street parking is also available in the surrounding residential areas. Always check the restaurant’s hours before heading over, as some of the best local spots close early or operate on limited schedules during the week.
Neighborhood Grill by Post & Beam
| Address | 900 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Not a good experience at all. Long lines and an even longer wait to get the food. The kids’ burger is a total rip-off—check the picture, even the tangerine is bigger than the cheeseburger. Also, aside from water, there are no drink options without sugar.
I came here to get something to eat for our kids. We came in and sat down and all. A women came up to me and talked to me in a very rude and unprofessional manner basicly saying they where closed. I checked the time and it was 4:23pm. I checked their restaurant hours and it says they close at 5pm? I was confused because when I came in everyone was just standing around and talking. Honestly you are better off just eating out side. All you get served here is just an attitude.
Wow! A lot of haters. I thought the food spectacular for museum food. It's pricey but it's museum food! The chicken tenders were hot and sweet potato fries were great as well. Very nice staff. Gave me extra ranch bc my boy was next to me. Great stuff!
Surprised and happily satisfied — highly recommended!
We were at the museum for Mother’s Day and were just looking for a quick bite, but it ended up being a full lunch. Great location for kids too. We sat outside, and the staff was incredibly friendly. The person in charge of cleaning the tables was especially kind, checking to make sure ours was clean and even wishing us a happy Mother’s Day — such a thoughtful gesture.
The whole team was warm and welcoming. The food was genuinely good, and for fast food, it really exceeded our expectations. The burger, chicken, and fries were all excellent. The pizza was good too, though we preferred the rest. Everything was tasty, quick, and nicely presented. If only all museum food were like this!
My burger was pretty good! The patty was perfect and the veggie was fresh. The waiting can be long on the weekend but it’s inevitable given the sheer number of orders during the lunchtime they get. The staff work diligently to make it smooth!
NHM Grill
| Address | 900 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 763-3466 |
Would have never guessed a simple hamburger 🍔 in a Museum restaurant could taste so good. If you're visiting the place and still haven't made your mind which restaurant choose, this is the one, no doubt.
There was a long line but all in all it didn't take that much time, additionally, once your order is taken the delivery time is quite short.
😋
This is a scam, we paid $80 for 2 burgers with fries and 2 kids combo!!!
The food had disgusting taste.
Turkey burger was oversalted because meat was not fresh. Horrible experience.
Chicken nuggets was fried in super old oil.
Cornflower nuggets was just burned and over oiled. DO NOT RECOMMEND!
Food was mediocre, service was incredibly slow. From walking in it took nearly 40 minutes to order and get served. Order came out missing the fruit that was supposed to come with it, but due to the long wait we barely had time to eat in order to make the show we had scheduled in the museum theater.
I don’t know why this place has bad reviews. I understand the price because it’s inside the museum. They don’t have it on menu but they have the best veggie burger I ever had with crunchy fries.
Food is awful! The chicken nuggets were overcooked and weird wax looking meat, fries were mushy, the peanut butter and jelly sandwich so dry my kid wouldn't eat it. Honestly a school cafeteria has much better food. This kitchen/eating area (inside) needs a serious upgrade. This is such a wonderful museum in every other way. The staff in the grill was very kind and they seemed to be working quickly. Just could not believe how bad all our food was.
Holbox
| Address | 3655 S Grand Ave c9, Los Angeles, CA 90007 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 986-9972 |
everything was good- nothing blew my mind 😩 i think a huge reason of that was because the staff didn’t tell us about their hot sauces they had in another area and we discovered them only whenever we had finished all of our food. this food was probably designed for a more delicate palate than mine- i missed the bold spicy flavors that the hot sauces would have provided for the food. everything was a little bland for me, even if the fish quality was excellent. could have used more limes for everything- so if you’re getting ceviche or any of the tostadas or the tacos, try asking for more limes, and UTILIZE THEIR HOT SAUCES!! tortillas are excellent. churros are also a must get. all in all, not a bad experience, just wish we had known about the hot sauces so we could have elevated our dining experience.
This was definitely an experience.
As someone not from the West Coast, driving into the area felt a little unexpected for a Michelin-recognized spot. It’s tucked inside a food hall with minimal signage, so just look for the line on the right when you walk in.
I went on a weekday about an hour before closing, so the wait was pretty minimal.
The menu is so good it’s hard to choose, so I didn’t. I ordered one of each type of dish. Tacos (the kanpachi taco was the standout), tuna tostada, scallop aguachile, yellowtail ceviche, coctel de camarón, and sea urchin. The uni wasn’t for me, and just a heads up, it’s served very fresh, like still moving when it hits the table.
Everything tasted incredibly fresh and well executed. It felt authentic without trying too hard, which I appreciated.
The staff was friendly and the whole process ran smoothly, even in a busy food hall setting.
★★★★☆
Holbox delivers exceptional seafood, and the food is unquestionably the reason to come. The grilled lobster was the highlight - incredibly fresh, tender, sweet, and perfectly cooked. Dipped in warm butter with grilled lemon, it was outstanding. The black beans, rice, avocado, and accompaniments complemented the seafood perfectly.
The quality and freshness of the ingredients really stand out. The preparation lets the seafood speak for itself without unnecessary sauces or overcomplication. Food is an easy 5/5.
Where the experience fell short was the service. At 3/5, it didn’t match the level of the food. The atmosphere is casual, lively, and unpretentious inside Mercado La Paloma. It’s enjoyable, but definitely more about the food than the overall dining environment.
Food: 5/5
Service: 3/5
Atmosphere: 4/5
Overall: 4/5
Holbox is absolutely worth visiting if you love fresh seafood. The kitchen is producing something special, and the lobster alone is worth the trip. With stronger service, this could easily have been a five-star overall experience.
TL;DR: Worth the hype, the line, and possibly a small emotional commitment.
We finally made it to Holbox this past weekend, and wow—consider us officially late to the party and very glad we showed up. We rolled up to Mercado La Paloma around 6:30 pm on a Friday, mentally preparing for a “stand here and question your life choices” kind of line… but plot twist: it moved fast! We were inside in about 15 minutes, which was just enough time to stare intensely at the menu and pretend we’re decisive people.
We went all in and ordered Scallop Aguachile, Bluefin Tuna Tostadas, Baja Fish Tacos, Grilled Branzino, and Grilled Octopus. Everything was fantastic. If I had to crown a winner (and I do), it’s the Grilled Octopus with Almond Pipian sauce. It was so good I briefly considered ordering a second one “for research.”
The market vibe is super chill—casual, lively, and just chaotic enough to be fun. The staff from all restaurants, not just Holbox, do a great job clearing tables, so finding a place to sit wasn’t an issue. We never had to awkwardly hover behind diners, making intense eye contact and willing them to leave.
Bonus perk of the food hall situation: snack diversification. We grabbed a couple of aguas frescas from Oaxacalifornia because hydration is important when you’re this committed to eating everything in sight.
Service was friendly and efficient, with staff constantly circulating, making it easy to ask questions and—most importantly—secure dessert. Speaking of which: chocolate and churros were ordered with zero hesitation, plus two more orders to go!
Final verdict: We will definitely be back to try more of Holbox’s menu!
All the seafood = super fresh. I don't even like mussels much but the ones they used in the seafood soup were great. We all loved the tacos, tostadas, and ceviche. The scallop aquachile was excellent as well. Would definitely come back again. I recommend you visit on a weekday rather than a weekend.
Bottega Louie
| Address | 700 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90017 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 802-1470 |
My partner and I had a reservation for this restaurant and as soon as we walked in, we were greeted with the smell of desserts and snacks. The style of the restaurant is immaculate as there's a golden/white sparkling when entering, similar to marble type environment, super modern and well designed.
Parking is a bit limited, no designated structure or lot but plenty of paid parking lots across/nearby to accommodate, not too expensive.
Since we had a reservation, we were seated super quick even though it was quite busy. Service was great, our server checked up on us on our order and refills very often along with ordering speed.
We ordered a margarita pizza, omelette, and a "must try" Portobello Fries, all shareable dishes. Pizza was bigger than expected but it was super delicious with a nice crunchy crust. Omelette is well cooked and has good portions.
Although I feel like there was too much veggies and less of the omelette, nonetheless, still pretty yummy. Lastly, the Portobello Fries were an absolute treat, as someone who loves mushrooms and fries, this was a perfect combo.
Highly recommend even for non mushroom lovers. Only downside to the fries is the container that it comes in, although great aesthetic, the pieces that fall off can easily make a mess on the table, not a huge downside but one to look at.
After the meal, we took a look at the bakery and we were enamored with the amount of macaron choices, a huge variety and super affordable. There were plenty of other desserts but we were too full to continue! We will definitely be back to try other menu items and bakery catalogs. Food was amazing, dessert is plentiful, service is great, and environment is perfect for a date setting.
Very nice restaurant. The service was great and food was pretty good. Good size servings. I had the Matcha Latte and a Hamburger with Cheese. All was good except you do have to sweeten the Latte, which they accompanied with a Raw Sugar packet and alternate sweetener packet. And the burger I just wish was a bit for flavorful but overall good enough. Definitely enough to make me full. And our server was very pleasant and attentive. I would definitely return. I also got a dessert on the way out, a Peanut Butter Chocolate cheesecake that looks delicious but haven't tried it yet. But when I do I'll update my review. And prices were pretty reasonable on everything.
There is a parking structure across the street and being at the restaurant for 2 and 1/2 hrs cost $9 for parking in the structure.
Whaaaattt!? This restaurant is next level!!!! I went to have a Sunday brunch and the experience was outstanding! I loved the atmosphere, the personnel was super friendly and the food was above delicious! Every detail is beautifully thought! Even the fresh roses on every flower pot!
This is definitely a must for a brunch experience. Our friendly waitress Jessy was super nice too! Thanks for this beautiful time!
I used to eat here regularly about fifteen years ago, when my uncle lived across the street. This Bottega Louie was always incredible. It has not changed! We came in on a Saturday night for a late dinner and were surprised because it was rather quiet. We were seated immediately and the service was exceptional. Michael was our waiter and he was friendly and even offered a great suggestion to my coworker who was torn between two dishes. Serving the bread directly on the table was genius. Saves space and the disposable table top paper is changed between each sitting. More restaurants should do this! Our food was delivered very fast, and did not disappoint! The meals were very filling and at a great price for downtown! We spent less on two meals than we would at most restaurants, but the food was much higher quality! This is a great restaurant for any event. I really like the open kitchen concept where you can see the cooks working and even the pizza oven with the chef making pizza dough.
The menu offered a great variety, and everything lived up to expectations. The Margherita Pizza was a standout, and both the Classic Cheeseburger and Chicken Parmesan were delicious. They also have excellent dessert options.
The entry is stunning, with a charming cafe and a beautiful pastry area. The dining area is elegant and upscale with a modern touch. The service was amazing, with a special shout-out to the talent behind the pizza oven.
It's a great spot perfect for any time of day. It’s a must-visit when in LA.
Central Kitchen at The Lorenzo
| Address | 325 W Adams Blvd Ste A, Los Angeles, CA 90007 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 908-2400 |
Came from the children’s hospital and decided to order from this location which was near by. I ordered the margarita pizza 🍕 and it was delicious the ambience is calm and pleasant which is a residence for students attending USC it is a nice residential area.
Showed friends from east coast this gem on the west coast! Excellent customer service, clean restaurant, varieties of food and snacks. fountain with fire in the midle, very nice enviroment, quiet. Most of their clients are students if USC! Highly recomend!
Pasta lovers! Try the Chicken Fettuccini Alfredo from here. It’s just the perfect comfort food! Creamy battery sauce, with well-seasoned tender grilled chicken, everything cooked to perfection including the mushrooms. Perfect size for two people to lunch and no more than $15. The ONLY downside of it was… NO BREAD WITH PASTA! But, still Totally worth it! I would do it again.
Excellent customer service, clean restaurant, varieties of food and snacks. I went for frozen yogurt, I sat in front of fountain with fire in the midle, very nice enviroment, quiet. The restaurant is inside The Lorenzo Apartments, very nice sorrounding, yummy yogurt! Most of their clients are students if USC! Highly recomend! Very convenient for tenant in the big complex!
This is a tucked away cafe. I found out about when dropping food off to an student at the Lorenzo apartments. Since the scenery was so nice I wanted to see how they living. Hella Nice, I must say. And this cafe offers a variety of dishes that's freshly cooked. A nice place to even take a day date too.
Skywalker Grill
| Address | One Lucas Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90037 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Service and atmosphere were exceptional. You can’t beat the view and the architecture!
The food overall was good. In particular, the chicken and mushroom crepe was truly delicious. The “pigs in a blanket” were also a fun, elevated take on a childhood favorite and a great starter.
While we enjoyed the wagyu burger, the fries were a bit flat / uninspired (they need more seasoning to be branded as “herbed”).
Overall a positive experience.
We were so excited to try this restaurant but were so incredibly underwhelmed. While the dishes were all interesting, nearly all of them were sorely under seasoned, The pigs in a blanket and vegan pasta were the best dishes, the burger and crabcake lacked flavor
The vibes are great, the drinks are fantastic, the food not so much. I’d recommended the bar for quick seating and drinks for a mid day museum break.
The servers were so kind and the views everywhere made everything taste that much better.
The chicken Milanese was quite good, but the other foods did not warrant a picture. Come for the drinks and the vibes! So fun.
Had an incredible first time at the Lucas Museum's new, hot restaurant on Saturday. Enjoyed the very crowded museum then headed up to the sanctuary that is Skywalker Grill. Perched on top of this amazing architectural masterpiece is an equally beautiful and well thought out restaurant. The pigs in a blanket with Kobe beef and citrus sundae were definite, surprising standouts and we cannot wait to go back! Especially to the patio when the weather is nicer. Customer service, especially at check in, could use some help. But they're new and I have high hopes they'll iron out lapses in great service.
I scored a last-minute reservation on Sunday, 10/11, after spending all day at the Lucas Museum. I went home and looked at the reservations at 7pm, saw an opening for 7:30pm and 7:45pm, and immediately reserved a table for 7:45pm. I ordered four sides and a bottle of Perrier water. There were a few vegan options, but mostly vegetarian.
What I ordered:
Brussels Sprouts $13 4/5
Mushrooms $13 4/5
Mac and Cheese $13 4/5
French Fries 3/5 (I told one of the servers they were cold so they brought out a new batch. The new batch was not cold, but also not hot.)
Perrier Bottle 3/5 cuz it was $11!!! That’s insane!
You are paying for the beautiful ambience.
The host, servers, and manager were all really friendly. The host sat me inside, but I asked to move to an outside table, and they accommodated my request. I had the best view!
I was one of the last guests to leave so I got some really beautiful pics and videos.
Jacks N Joe
| Address | 2498 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90007 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM |
| Phone | (213) 748-4565 |
Great price point, generous portions, cool atmosphere… breakfast all day! What is there not to love? In the heart of USC, so a place that is friendly to the college students is important for the area. Parking sort of is a hit or miss, so if you’re able to walk, or park blocks away, that’s recommended. Enjoyed the French Toast combo and the Combo 1 w/ Pancakes! Iced coffee was SUBLIME. Cannot wait to come back.
As someone who loves pancakes, I'm always excited to try pancakes at different places. I was shocked and truly appalled that in the year 2026 there is a place with multiple pancake options has customers putting COLD syrup on pancakes. I didn't even know places still did that. Probably my worst pancake nightmare. Pancakes were also under cooked, something that could've possibly been overlooked if COLD syrup wasn't with it. Cameron brought potatoes even though I said hashbrowns and sher repeated it but still messed up. I know it's not her fault she has to give customers COLD syrup, but at least double check your orders. Definitely ruined the experience. WARM UP YOUR SYRUP!
ZOEN!!! Not only was the food cheap and absolutely amazing but the service we received!! Man I run restaurants in Washington and I just about offered to fly our server zoen back with us. From a management position he is exactly the type of person you want and need in the service industry. He’s friendly, social, funny and attentive. Someone give this man a raise. Best breakfast and service I’ve had in years. Ambiance is the perfect small down American breakfast place. I have zero complaints.
The restaurant was solid, the food is great and so was the service. The parking was a little limited in the front and I didn't know there was parking in the back as well. The menu is decent in options.
The employees are very nice and attentive. My wife and both got scrambled eggs with bacon. After we ordered, I looked over at another customer's plate and noticed her bacon didn't look crispy as if the fat wasn't fully rendered. I should've caught the waitress before she put the order in because, sure enough, my wife's bacon was only half-cooked and so was mine. We will come here again, but we will be sure to request well-done bacon, as well as well-done hash browns.
JOEY DTLA
| Address | 700 W 7th St Ste S430, Los Angeles, CA 90017 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (213) 372-5335 |
First of all, Reem is THE TRUTH! I am 100% sure I'm only coming back if she's here because she made the experience so easy.
I was struggling to decode what to eat and she came in an helped me make the best decisions.
Literally, everything was amazing!
The lobster spaghetti, the Chilean sea bass (my friend Dawnika got that), the seared sushi roll, the salad, the apple pie, the cheesecake. Dear GOD!
From the moment we walked into the restaurant, the ambiance enveloped us and quickly activated our vacation mode. We were offered complimentary champagne.
The music isnt too loud. The tables are perfectly sized (even for a big girl like me). Hello!
I absolutely love this place! We need one in Atlanta! And bring Reem with you!
We're only here in LA for 4 days and this might be the only spot we eat at.
Ola genuinely embodies world-class customer service. She was patient, friendly warm and she convinced our party to sample nearly the entire happy hour menu. From the espresso martini and peach bellini to the tempura shrimp, seared salmon sushi, truffle fries, and French dip ribeye sliders...everything was amazing. Im in town from Georgia visiting my two daughters. We'll be back to Joey's DTLA for sure! Joy, Brittany and Alexis, Ola's Habbibis
What a great first experience. Duanny was great and we went with all of his recommendations and they were fantastic - we started with Guacamole Corn salsa - out of this world. Burger to follow was out of this world. Main dishes Steck and Chicken Ravioli and chicken fajita was tender and juicy. Unmatched service and atmosphere. Thank you Duanny - we’ll be back. !
This was a great first meal in LA while on vacation! Betsy was amazing, clean, clear communication, fun, and helpful!
+ GREAT drinks! We loved the low alcohol coconut smash!
+ customer service from all the waiters and waitresses (just want to be specific that the hostesses were kind of chit-chatty, and not to customers lol they were talking to each other and when my table was ready they called me Alan? Lol)
+ good ambiance, music, vibes
+ high quality food
+ I appreciated that all servers help out as needed instead of the traditional 1 server to 1 table.
- very pricy. My lobster spaghetti was 90% spaghetti 5% tomatoes 3% lobster and 2% shrimp lol
- hostesses as mentioned above
Celebrated our girl for her birthday here and it was also our first time here. To say our experience was perfect is actually an understatement. Their service and their food was amazing. Our waiter was Farshid J he was a perfect waiter, very attentive, very informative, and sweet! Ashlen was also a joy to be around she recommend my new favorite forever drink. If you do anything right in life, it’ll be stopping by here and grabbing a drink and a bite. The staff alone made it worth the experience.
Cafecito de La Crepe
| Address | 1541 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90062 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 792-4064 |
This place is so aesthetic and beautiful, the staff are so sweet and kind, we took a while ordering because we couldn't decide, but they were kind and patient. I got the chicken fettuccine Alfredo and its genuinely the best pasta ive ever had, my partner got the "baby crepe" and despite its name it was huge and also delicious!! *(came with a cute flower on top)* Definitely recommend! This is our new spot 🙂
The Carlitos Crepe was flavorful and filling. The French is a bit soggy for our preference, but was also yummy. The service was a bit slow because they were packed full house because of the CicLAvia event that was going on that day, but the servers did their best. The space is ok, nothing much of any decor or design. But you would go to this place for their food, not their interior decor anyway. Parking might be challenging, but you can always try street parking. Overall, it was a pleasant experience.
Amazing place! Let’s start with the outside — from the street it doesn’t really catch your eye, and the auto repair shop nearby is a bit off-putting, so we actually drove past it at first without realizing where the café was. But everything changes the moment you step inside: a great space, very calm and pleasant music, and a beautifully cozy interior.
That said, the atmosphere isn’t the main highlight here — the food is.
We stopped by randomly without any expectations, and were honestly blown away. The food is delicious, the portions are huge, and it’s not just about the size — the flavors are outstanding. I ordered eggs Benedict with salmon, and the portion was big enough to cover both breakfast and lunch 🙂
The crepes are also fantastic. We tried them with chicken sausages and vegetables — absolutely amazing. I’ll definitely be back to try more dishes.
Highly recommend this place!
It was awesome. I was hesitant at first but there was enough variety for me to find what I had a taste for. Waitress was very helpful in answering my questions as well as she checked in on us to make sure our table was doing well. It was raining and they had am umbrella holder. The vibe inside was roomy but still intimate. The back of house looked down and so was the front. Enjoyed my food and I sampled my friends pasta dish.
This place is a hidden gem. Great breakfast and service. All the food was delicious. The family enjoyed it. Parking is very limited. The to go coffee lids do not fit the cups. Some salad pieces are soggy. But, overall great place.
Manuela
| Address | 907 E 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:30 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 849-0480 |
This was my second time being back here and I think I really enjoyed it better this time.
We went as a group of 7, celebrating a birthday. The staffs were very sweet and got us a nice big table in our own corner.
Food was delicious! Perfect for a family style kinda sharing so you get to try many things. We all were very happy with how delicious everything was. Cocktails were also very tasty.
Corn bread, tartar, and the coffee ice cream were the ones that stayed in my mind a lot. The duck dish was also amazing.
All their staffs were very friendly and attentive. They always deliver while at the same time leave us to ourselves.
Definitely will be a place I’d recommend for anyone wants to have a cute date spot or a special big group dinner!
This place is a gem: the restaurant is surrounded by greenery, a community garden, a chicken coop and an Art gallery!
Nikki who manages the place has welcomed us warmly and made sure we would have the best experience: we did. Staff is helpful, dishes are creative and delicious and the clientele is diverse, this has been our favourite place to dine out in L.A.
Manuela is a straight up gem in the middle of LA and I don’t say that lightly. Walking in through the Hauser & Wirth complex you immediately feel it open, fresh, artistic, like the city took a breath. The kind of place that makes you slow down without even trying.
We got the burrata salad and the dressing is what got me. Just perfectly balanced and bright, letting the burrata actually shine.
And the biscuits? Everything people say and more. Buttery, rich, the kind you tear into and immediately want another. Not overly heavy, just deeply satisfying.
Service was excellent attentive without being in your face, which is exactly what you want when the environment is this good and you just want to sit in it.
One honest note the venison burger didn’t quite land for us, and if you’re someone who prioritizes protein options, the menu is a little limited on that front.
Would love to see them expand there.
Other than that, it’s casual but elevated you don’t feel like you have to perform, you just get to enjoy. If you’re in LA and haven’t been, add it to the list. It feeds you in more ways than one.
Manuela is a great choice for Farm to table dining, especially if you are craving yummy carby things and like woodfired meats and veggies. Reminded me a bit of some of the places we recently enjoyed in Napa. Some of our favorites were the trout tartare, soft shell crab, venison burger, all of the salads, and omg the homemade biscuits and corn bread. They also have a community garden and a chicken coop you can visit. Corkage $40 first 2 then 80, but they waive one for each bottle u buy. Nice, friendly service. We would happily go back! #thefoodetraveler
Manuela in the Arts District is exactly the kind of restaurant that makes downtown Los Angeles feel layered, creative and alive. Tucked inside the Hauser & Wirth complex, it is not just a place to eat, but a full experience — part restaurant, part garden, part art-world escape.
The setting is easily one of its biggest strengths. You walk into a space where the art, open kitchen, patio, greenery and industrial Arts District character all come together without feeling forced. There is a calmness to the restaurant that makes it feel special, but not stiff.
The food leans modern American with a strong Southern influence, and the menu clearly celebrates seasonal produce, local farms and ingredient-led cooking. Among the starters, the cream biscuits were exceptional — warm, comforting, beautifully made and honestly one of those dishes that can set the tone for the whole meal. They are the kind of simple thing that only works when the execution is really strong.
What I enjoyed most about Manuela is that it has a point of view. The restaurant does not feel like it is chasing trends. It knows what it is: seasonal, relaxed, artistic, rooted in California produce, but with a Southern comfort thread running through the food. The menu moves comfortably between shareable starters, seafood, vegetables, wood-fired dishes and cocktails, making it a great place for brunch, lunch, dinner or even a slower afternoon meal in the Arts District.
Overall, Manuela is one of those LA restaurants where the environment and the food support each other beautifully. It is stylish without being cold, thoughtful without being precious, and memorable without trying too hard. I would go back for the setting, the garden, the atmosphere — and absolutely for those biscuits.
Chapin's Kitchen & Mini Mart
| Address | 1060 W Exposition Blvd #102, Los Angeles, CA 90007 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 402-0049 |
Perfect choice for lunch or dinner! We got double protein with stir fry veggie and garlic noodle. Price is 22$. Protein portion is great we ordered beef and chicken.
Also the best service, cook gave us six different homemade sauce to try, cleanest kitchen I have ever seen.
food is SO flavorful with generous portions. we had the garlic noodles with chicken and a shrimp veggie rice bowl. i wish i lived in LA just to come here. Also the chef/owners/employees are all the nicest people. You can tell they care about their food and the community.
We got the salmon & butter noodles and the carne asada & butter noodles and it was absolutely delicious!! The guy at the register gave us 2 of each sauces for us to try and also gave us some of the salsas. They were all really good. My favorite was the lemon garlic sauce and salsa verde. My husband liked their teriyaki. The salmon was grilled but it was still moist & flavorful which as you know, could be easy to overcook. I don't eat meat but my husband said the carne asada was juicy and tender. It looked perfectly seared as well. The noodles were soooo good! I've actually never tried noodles like that. They were perfectly cooked as well and the veggies added nice texture to every bite. This really is a gem. We've been attempting to try their food for the last 3 weeks but with our work schedules. We kept missing their kitchen hours. So glad we finally got a chance to try it today. It was worth it! We live around the corner and will definitely be back. Customer service was 20/10 and they have a nice inventory for quick shopping needs.
Had the Garlic butter noodles added shrimp and got the lemon sauce! The prices are very reasonable! It was so delicious everything was so fresh and well seasoned. Customers service was great everything was nice and clean will come back !
Listen, when I tell you; These are the Best Asada Fries in Los Angeles, some may call that a understatement. First off, the cook and guy at the counter was chill as fudge, the shop was clean and has awesome varieties of ice cream, and the cashier lady was also pleasant.
The fries have the oddest taste; in a very good, only positive way. It was a mild to heavy sour, and the heat was actually a good complement to the sourness, the cheese was great, beef was well cooked; I had no complaints. If you pass this place up, I feel alot of sorrow for you; because when you show up and try this place, it's so fire and such a gem man, I tell you. Thanks alot, Cheers Chapin's!
Flavor Table
| Address | 2812 W Florence Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90043 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 615-0170 |
1 hour before they closed, we called and asked if they can accommodate 12+ guest.
AND THEY SURE DID!!!
THE FOOD:
It was some of the best food I have ever ate. The flavor of everything was amazing and made perfect also came out hot. I got to taste 6 different meals because we was so amazed how good it was we had to share.
THE SERVICE:
it was refreshing to go to an establishment that cares about customer experiences and it shows. Each employee path i crossed would greet me and brief conversation, and he gave us some of the History of the restaurant. The servers, host and anyone who had a work shirt on was amazing.
Sidenote: they even gave us good a great pov of what the kids should order so we didnt have a high bill. But they are priced great.
I truly appreciate the people of this place because it gave a I LOVE WHO I DO feeling and I can notice it.
I wish I would have got the names of the staff members but the ones who worked Saturday afternoon I appreciate them for taking great care of us during our visit.
I went to the Flavor Table on March 8th, and the wait wasn’t long. The service was amazing; our waitress was so funny and so enthusiastic, making us feel comfortable. The shrimp and grits were so tasty, and the peach cobbler French toast was extremely good. Much love from Ohio! I will be back!!
On a recent visit to Los Angeles I tried this spot out for the very first time and it was a risk that paid off!! The food is delicious! Definitely a hidden gem. Service was great, food portions were sizeable. I had no complaints! Can't wait to go back!
The food was FIRE. I don't usually leave a review (too much work for mid food), but this spot is a hidden gem. Let me tell you about dem BUISCUITS! Whew chile moist and delicious. Food tasted so fresh and perfectly seasoned, and not over-salted like them other places I've been. Not greasy, just full of flavor. Reasonably priced with huge portions. Get in before the crowd usually around 10am. You're welcome.
I love this place.nice friendly staff. Seats you very soon. Clean dining room. Street parking. The food never disappoints. Took two relatives for the first time and they were very impressed and they love the food.
Tips for Dining Near the Natural History Museum
To ensure your culinary adventure is as seamless as your museum visit, a little local knowledge goes a long way. The area around Exposition Park is a mix of university students, museum tourists, and long-time residents, which creates a unique dining dynamic. Understanding the rhythm of the neighborhood will help you avoid long waits and ensure you get the best experience possible from these local establishments.
1. Plan Around USC’s Academic Calendar
The University of Southern California (USC) is directly adjacent to the museum. During the school year, especially at lunchtime, popular spots can be flooded with students. If you prefer a quieter meal, try to dine before 11:30 AM or after 1:30 PM. Conversely, during summer and winter breaks, you will find the neighborhood significantly calmer and easier to navigate.
2. Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover
Some of the best meals near the museum come from unassuming strip malls or historic buildings with modest facades. The area is rich in "hole-in-the-wall" establishments that prioritize flavor over flashy decor. If you see a line of locals stretching out the door of a small taqueria or burger stand, that is usually a sign you are in the right place.
3. Be Mindful of Museum Hours and Lunch Rushes
If you are dining on a weekend, be aware that the lunch rush hits hard between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Since many of these restaurants are smaller, family-run businesses, they may not have the staff to handle a sudden influx of tourists. Consider an early or late lunch to avoid standing in line when you are already tired from walking the museum floors.
4. Explore the Flavors of Oaxaca and the South
Los Angeles is a global food city, but the area surrounding the museum is particularly famous for two distinct cuisines: Southern Soul Food and Oaxacan Mexican food. Do not play it safe with generic chain food. This is your opportunity to try dishes like mole negro, jamaica (hibiscus) drinks, fried catfish, and smothered pork chops that define the local culture.
5. Check for Cash-Only Policies
While the city is moving toward a cashless society, several legacy restaurants near Exposition Park still operate on a cash-only or cash-preferred basis to keep costs down. Before you sit down, glance at the door or the register for signs indicating their payment policies. It is always wise to have a $20 bill in your pocket just in case the card reader is down.
6. Combine Your Visit with a Walk
Parking near the museum is expensive, often costing upwards of $15 to $20. If you are physically able, park once in a central location and walk to your chosen restaurant. The area is generally flat and walkable, and strolling through the historic streets of University Park allows you to digest your meal and see a side of Los Angeles that most tourists miss.
The dining scene surrounding the Natural History Museum is a testament to the resilience and diversity of Los Angeles. These restaurants are more than just places to eat; they are community pillars that have fed generations of students, families, and curious travelers. By choosing to spend your money at these local institutions, you are supporting the cultural fabric of South LA.
As you plan your visit, remember that the best travel experiences often happen when you wander off the beaten path. While the dinosaurs and dioramas inside the museum are spectacular, the flavors waiting just outside the gates are equally memorable. Take your time, savor the local cuisine, and enjoy the rich, flavorful history that this vibrant neighborhood has to offer.
